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The 1971 Honda CB500 Four and 1978 Suzuki GS1000 are both iconic 1970s standards that defined their respective markets.
The 1971 Honda CB500 Four from Japan was powered by a 498cc SOHC inline-4 producing 50hp at 9000rpm. Weighing 185.0kg (408 lbs) and with a seat height of 800mm, it was aimed at standard riders.
The 1978 Suzuki GS1000 by contrast offered 997cc of DOHC inline-4 power, delivering 87hp at 8000rpm. Tipping the scales at 237.0kg (522 lbs) with a top speed of 215km/h (134 mph), it offered a distinct riding experience. 1970s bikes from the Japanese superbike revolution are increasingly sought after. Clean, original examples have seen significant value appreciation.
The 1971 Honda CB500 Four from Japan was powered by a 498cc SOHC inline-4 producing 50hp at 9000rpm. Weighing 185.0kg (408 lbs) and with a seat height of 800mm, it was aimed at standard riders.
The 1978 Suzuki GS1000 by contrast offered 997cc of DOHC inline-4 power, delivering 87hp at 8000rpm. Tipping the scales at 237.0kg (522 lbs) with a top speed of 215km/h (134 mph), it offered a distinct riding experience. 1970s bikes from the Japanese superbike revolution are increasingly sought after. Clean, original examples have seen significant value appreciation.
Specifications Comparison
| 1971 Honda CB500 Four | 1978 Suzuki GS1000 | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 498 cc | 997 cc |
| Power | 50 hp | 87 hp |
| Torque | 40.0 Nm | 80.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 4 | 4 |
| Top Speed | 175 km/h | 215 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 185.0 kg | 237.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 200.0 kg | 255.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 800 mm | 810 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1405 mm | 1510 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 14.0 L | 20.0 L |
| Gears | 5 -speed | 5 -speed |
The Verdict
For pure standard performance, the 1978 Suzuki GS1000 has the edge thanks to more power (87hp vs 50hp) and a higher top speed. The 1971 Honda CB500 Four, however, excels when all-round versatility and everyday riding is the priority.
About the 1971 Honda CB500 Four
The 1971 1971 Honda CB500 Four is a 498cc four-cylinder standard motorcycle that became one of Honda's most memorable motorcycles of the 1970s.
Full 1971 Honda CB500 Four Profile →About the 1978 Suzuki GS1000
Introduced in 1978, the 1978 Suzuki GS1000 features a 997cc DOHC inline-4 engine producing 87hp, establishing itself as a notable standard motorcycle.
Full 1978 Suzuki GS1000 Profile →